An F in position 18 specifies fetch overflow for the printer file defined on this line. This file must be a printer file that has overflow lines. Fetch overflow is processed only when an overflow occurs and when all conditions specified by the indicators in positions 21 through 29 are satisfied. An overflow indicator cannot be specified on the same line as fetch overflow.
If an overflow indicator has not been specified with the OFLIND keyword on the file description specifications for a printer file, the compiler assigns one to the file. An overflow line is generated by the compiler for the file, except when no other output records exist for the file or when the printer uses externally described data. This compiler-generated overflow can be fetched.
Overflow lines can be written during detail, total, or exception output time. When the fetch overflow is specified, only overflow output associated with the file containing the processed fetch is output. The fetch overflow entry (F) is required on each OR line for record types that require the overflow routine. The fetch overflow routine does not automatically advance forms. For detailed information on the overflow routine see Overflow Routine and Figure 9
The form length and overflow line can be specified using the FORMLEN and OFLIND keywords on the file description specifications, in the printer device file, or through an IBM i override command.